Catalytic Converter: Description and Operation

Catalytic Converter:

The catalytic converter is mounted in the engine exhaust stream, between the Head pipe and pre-silencer. The converter contains a ceramic honeycomb which is coated with a high surface area alumina and impregnated with catalytically active precious metals.

The three-way catalyst, speeds up a chemical reaction to control the emission of air pollutants from the engine. The pollutants controlled by the converter are oxides of nitrogen, unburned hydrocarbons (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO).

Care must be taken when servicing the fuel or exhaust system on vehicles fitted with a catalytic converter to prevent any damage to the catalyst by overfueling (incorrect adjustments) or misfueling (leaded fuel).

WARNING: THE OPERATING TEMPERATURE OF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM IS VERY HIGH. NEVER ATTEMPT TO SERVICE ANY PART OF THE SYSTEM UNTIL IT HAS COOLED. BE ESPECIALLY CAREFUL WHEN WORKING AROUND THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. THE TEMPERATURE OF THE CONVERTER RISES TO A HIGH LEVEL AFTER ONLY A FEW MINUTES OF ENGINE OPERATION.